Sleeve applicator machine and related method of operation
US9944422B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 20, 2015 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 21, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65C2009/0018
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A sleeve applicator machine is used to remove and open a sleeve from a carrier for application of the sleeve around an elongated object such as a wire. A mandrel is inserted into an opening of an unopened sleeve while the sleeve is still supported by the carrier. Once the mandrel is inserted into the sleeve, the mandrel is lifted to separate the unopened sleeve from the carrier. While still on the mandrel, the sleeve (which is now in a semi-opened state) is positioned between a separable pair of sleeve-opening dies in which the dies are in an opened position. The dies are closed or brought together around the sleeve and mandrel to compress the sleeve to a fully open state. At this point and with the dies holding the sleeve open, the mandrel may be withdrawn from the sleeve and a wire or other elongated object inserted into the opening of the sleeve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.